A Prayer in Struggling Faith

“Father God, I'm struggling with faith.

When I try to grasp it, it’s like a wraith.

I’m told it’s something I must hold,

To carry in strength and be so bold.

In confession of the trials I’m in,

I feel like I’m wavering. Is that a sin?

And when I search, questioning others about what to do,

I find myself returning, rending my heart and asking of you.”

The Father replied, a joyous smile written on his face.

“What a beautiful use of my divine favor, grace.

You’re right to come here with all your heart first.

I am the only one who’s able to quench your thirst.

That thirst is the seed of faith in your heart that is sown.

Only by my water and by my light can it be grown.

In the garden of your heart, it must be hidden,

In my care to tend, and to why you’re constantly bidden.

Many trials are for my children in this life,

Strengthening your faith through the arms strife.

Is it wavering when the storm blows on the tender shoot?

Does not the wind and rain I bring strengthen the root?

When these come, speak the Word that I AM near.

For my Spirit is within your midst, to conquer your fear.

You are a new creation, and I, the trellis upon which you rest.

Be ready as you grow, for I will come to prune and test.

At that time, be courageous and abide in my love deep,

I’m teaching you to know I’m the eternal prize to keep.

It will appear dark like a wraith because I’m a step away.

Don’t let your fickle will of expectation cause you to sway.

Surrender your will to mine and to the Spirit of truth holdfast.

And I will take you further than you ever thought you’d last.

When dawn breaks, you’ll see how you’ve come around.

You will know me and in all of you, faith will abound.”

Luke 13:18-20, John 15:7-11, 17:3, James 1:2-4